India's Spin Woes: Middle Overs Vulnerability Exposed

India faces a critical decision regarding their bowling strategy for the series-deciding third ODI against New Zealand on Sunday. The first two matches exposed vulnerabilities in the middle overs, particularly concerning their spinners' inability to control the game or pose a consistent wicket-taking threat. Kuldeep Yadav struggled significantly, with New Zealand batters effectively employing sweeps and using their feet to negate his turn.

The collective performance of India's spinners fell short compared to the disciplined Kiwi spinners, who choked the scoring rate and forced errors. Considering the Indore venue's short boundaries, India's bowlers, including Kuldeep, must adapt by bowling flatter, attacking stumps, and utilizing the ground's dimensions wisely. The absence of injured Washington Sundar was felt, and the team management might consider changes, possibly favoring an extra pace option like Arshdeep Singh.

With the series on the line, India's focus will be on execution rather than experimentation. While the batting lineup is expected to remain stable, the bowling attack might see adjustments to strengthen pace options and prevent New Zealand from building early momentum. India boasts an imposing record at Holkar Stadium, having won all five previous matches there, adding to the anticipation for this crucial decider.